Check batteries in smoke detectors, WLFD says

Imagine doubling the chances of winning at a casino. Most people would take that bet, but when it comes to checking the batteries in smoke detectors, many people are ho-hum about the chore, even though a working smoke detectors doubles the chances of getting out of a house fire alive.

West Lafayette Fire Department unveiled its new program Tuesday to raise awareness to keep batteries in smoke detectors, Fire Chief Tim Heath said.

"That's a nationwide issue," Heath said. "West Lafayette is being proactive and getting ahead with a program that will raise awareness to our students, our citizens, of the importance of keeping the batteries in and how it can double your chances of getting out of a fire."

Dillon Mills, a Purdue visual communication undergrad student, designed a circular logo. This logo will be plastered on pizza boxes and other places throughout the city. The department is also creating magnets with logo.

"We'll put the magnets on the stall doors in bathrooms," Heath said. "It's our hope that the students at Purdue University will actually steal the magnets, take them home and put them on the refrigerator, and every time they get a drink of milk or beverage, they'll see that sticker and be reminded to keep that battery in their detector."

West Lafayette firefighters responded to two fatal fires since November 2013. In both instances, there were working smoke detectors in the residences, Heath said. But that's not always the case, and in some instances, batteries go bad during the year and need to be replaced. A $3 battery in a working smoke detector might be the difference between getting out of a house fire and not surviving a fire, Heath said.

West Lafayette police also will be distributing magnets as they welcome students back, but the police magnet is geared to raise awareness on how not to get busted when hosting a party.

The police have distributed these magnets to off-campus students during door-to-door greetings with newly arrived students.

The police magnet informs people that it is illegal to sell alcohol, charge for cups or collect a cover charge for music and expenses. It encourages those hosting a party to keep it small and contained, let the neighbors know about the party and have some sober guests who can serve as security at the party. Lastly, it reminds hosts not to let their guests drive while intoxicated.

West Lafayette Mayor John Dennis said the goal is to avoid having to respond to fatal fires or drunken behavior spilling out into the streets.

"This will be part of our action plan," West Lafayette Mayor John Dennis said. "We're going to knock on doors; we're going to politely introduce ourselves and make sure that the properties are in compliance."